One of the most exciting national music stories of the year is also one of the most exciting local music news stories of the year.

That’s because all three members of Nickel Creek, now back together after a seven-year hiatus, are native San Diegans. All three got their start playing at North County bluegrass jam-sessions while still in grade school. The trio’s debut album, “Little Cowpoke,” came out in 1993, when two of its members were not yet in their teens.

It was the start of a remarkable career that saw this Grammy Award-winning band tour the world and record a string of hit albums. In the process, the trio set a heady standard for singing, songwriting and musicianship. While rooted in bluegrass, they also comfortably embraced folk, rock, Celtic and swing, along with inspired renditions of Pavement’s “Spit on a Stranger” and Britney Spears’ “Toxic.”

Along with Willie Nelson, Nickel Creek was the only act to play at both the Coachella and Stagecoach festivals in 2007. Their double-billing underscored the group’s artistic excellence and its ability to appeal to diverse audiences.

The trio’s much-anticipated reunion tour, which includes a nearly sold-out May concert here, will follow the release on April 1 (no fooling!) of its terrific new Nonesuch Records album, “A Dotted Line.” The album's 10 songs find mandolinist Chris Thile, violinist Sara Watkins and her guitar-playing brother Sean Watkins sounding more poised and purposeful than ever. Likewise, their trademark vocal blend should inspire nods of approval and broad smiles.

The aural chemistry between Thile and the Watkins siblings on their new album is as palpable as the fact that their time apart has enabled all to blossom on their own. Their regrouping is worth cheering about.

“Symphony Interrupted,” featuring Dave Mustaine and the San Diego Symphony: Expect an exciting synthesis when the symphony accompanies Megadeth leader and guitar shredder Dave Mustaine as he solos on classics by Vivaldi and Bach. 8 p.m. April 12. Jacobs Music Center, 750 B St., downtown. $25-$96. (619) 235-0804 or sandiegosymphony.org

Michael Nesmith: He is best known as one of the co-founders of The Monkees — hey, hey! — but Nesmith’s greatest creative legacy is as a notable proto-country-rocker. This rare solo show will be a treat for fans of his largely overlooked post-Monkees work. 8 p.m. April 30. Belly Up, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach. $45 and $47. (858) 481-8140 or bellyup.com

Alison Brown Quartet: A La Jolla High School alum who lives in Nashville, Alison Brown is a banjo virtuoso and veteran band leader. Her music mixes bluegrass, jazz and more into a sparkling blend. 7 p.m. May 3. Museum of Making Music, 5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad. $22 and $28. (760) 438-5996 or museumofmakingmusic.org